How to manage literature using custom tags in EndNote?
EndNote enables researchers to create and apply custom tags to references, significantly enhancing literature organization beyond standard fields like keywords or author. This is achieved by utilizing customizable fields within EndNote records to store user-defined labels.
The primary mechanism involves assigning values to any editable field designated for custom tags, such as the customizable fields (Label, Notes) or renaming other fields like Custom 1-7 via Preferences. Tags are typically added manually during reference entry or editing, or optionally via batch editing. Effective management requires consistent naming conventions and reliable application across references. Users then leverage these tags primarily for filtering within EndNote libraries using the search panel or constructing specific groups based on tag criteria.
To implement, first plan your tag taxonomy considering project needs or themes. Assign tags consistently to relevant references by entering values into the chosen custom field during data entry or via Edit > Find and Replace for bulk updates. Then, utilize the search panel: select your designated custom tag field and enter the tag value to filter the library view instantly, or create a Smart Group to automatically collect references sharing that tag. This facilitates swift retrieval of literature subsets for specific analyses, projects, or writing tasks.
